If you snore loudly, feel excessively drowsy during the day, and disrupt your partner’s sleep, you could be one of the billion adults suffering from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a condition caused by relaxed throat muscles that block your airway. This results in loud snoring and cessations in breathing throughout the night, which causes you to continually wake up to catch your breath.
Many factors, such as obesity, smoking, chronic nasal congestion, or other respiratory issues, may increase one’s chances of developing sleep apnea. If you suspect you have sleep apnea, our Sandcreek Dental team in Glendive, MT, is here to assist you with treatment options or can refer you to a sleep specialist for a sleep study to find the best course of action.
Regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining oral health and detecting signs of sleep apnea. We can create a custom oral appliance for sleep apnea if deemed clinically appropriate. These devices provide a comfortable and convenient alternative to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines.
Many people who wear oral devices experience better quality sleep, improved energy, and a boost to their overall well-being. Studies show people are more likely to consistently use oral appliances than CPAP machines; therefore, comfort and compliance should be considered when choosing the best approach for you. In addition, we can suggest lifestyle changes that may alleviate your symptoms.
CPAP is a commonly prescribed sleep apnea treatment. CPAP devices use room air, which is filtered, pressurized, and humidified before being sent through a tube to your mask. The continuous stream of pressurized air flows through your airway, keeping it open while you sleep. With a CPAP machine, your muscles no longer block the oxygen flow.
Therefore, you won’t repeatedly wake up to resume breathing or gasp for air. Although CPAP is considered the most effective method for treating sleep apnea, it has downsides. Many people find the mask uncomfortable, claustrophobic, or cumbersome, and common side effects include congestion, a runny nose, dry mouth, nosebleeds, and skin irritation.
Sleep apnea appliances are custom-made dental devices that are worn while you sleep. They’re designed to reposition your jaw, tongue, and other oral structures to prevent airway obstruction. By gently moving your lower jaw forward, oral appliances help maintain an open airway, reducing or eliminating snoring and sleep apnea episodes.
When you get an oral appliance for sleep apnea in Glendive, MT, it fits your mouth comfortably, ensuring compliance and optimal effectiveness. This noninvasive treatment will significantly benefit you and relieve your sleeping partner by reducing disruptive snoring!
People with excess fat in the neck, tongue, and upper belly are more vulnerable to sleep apnea, but losing even a small amount of weight can help alleviate symptoms. Sleeping on your side instead of your back can prevent gravity from worsening airway obstruction, while a good mattress, pillows, and sleep environment can enhance sleep quality.
Limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding certain medications that relax airway muscles are crucial for managing sleep apnea. Consult your doctor about any medications you take, as some can exacerbate the condition.
Sleep apnea is a severe medical condition that, if left untreated, can result in complications related to heart, kidney, and metabolic health. Research indicates that sleep apnea is linked to an increased risk of diabetes (regardless of obesity) and elevated blood sugar levels.
Additionally, sleep apnea is associated with a higher incidence of anxiety, depression, irritability, and deficits in neurocognitive function and performance. The persistent fatigue caused by sleep apnea can lead to difficulties at work or school and poses risks when driving or operating heavy machinery.
Sleep apnea is a medical condition that can seriously impact your way of life. If you’re not sleeping properly, you’re probably too exhausted to do anything throughout the day. You may even fall asleep on the job or when trying to spend time with your loved ones. It can also lead to nighttime grinding, which can cause problems with your jaw.
The loud snoring at night can even be disruptive to your loved ones, causing them to stay awake. Most importantly, untreated sleep apnea increases your risks for other serious health issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
Patients with milder sleep apnea symptoms can often benefit from the oral device we make for them in the office. This device works by positioning the jaw to open the airway, making it easier for you to breathe while you sleep.
In some cases, you may be able to use an oral appliance for sleep apnea with other therapies, and it may help your CPAP work more effectively. We will review your health and medical history to ensure that treatment is appropriate. If you have sleep apnea, it is essential to consider treatment to improve your quality of life.
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